AN ANIMAL charity in Ireland has come to the rescue of a Shetland pony with grossly overgrown hooves after it was left in an 'appalling' condition.
Hungry Horse Outside found the animal at a site in Co. Monaghan earlier this week after being alerted by a member of the public.
The elderly pony, which was struggling to walk, was removed for immediate treatment.
The animal, which they named Marty, had x-rays taken before receiving farrier treatment and a decent feed.
While Marty is now comfortable, Hungry Horse Outside said it was unbelievable it was still dealing with such “ignorance, stupidity and neglect” in 2018.
The animal was found in an 'appalling' condition (Image: Hungry Horse Outside / Facebook)Describing Marty’s case, the Longford-based charity said: “There is no excuse for this behaviour and absolutely no excuse for gross neglect.
“Perhaps, once upon a time, little Marty was part of someone’s family, suddenly he's surplus to requirements, he didn't even mean enough to his so-called owners to spend €20 to keep his hooves trimmed.
“Absolute torture and indifference was chosen over adequate care.”
They added: “We've heard all the excuses and they just aren't good enough. We want change.”
Marty after being treated by a farrier (Image: Hungry Horse Outside / Facebook)With the animal’s rehabilitation only beginning, the charity is seeking donations for Marty's care and to continue their work rescuing horses, ponies and donkeys.
